Bowiea volubilis subsp volubilis has an unusual succulent adaptation - climbing inflorescences that harvest photosynthetic light in the absence of aerial leaves. This has made it a collectable curiosity amongst bulb enthusiasts worldwide. However, in southern Africa this species faces severe threat due to the medicinal market. Herbalists constantly rate this species as one of the top six medicinal species to have become scarce as a result of over-utilization.

Bowiea volubilis subsp volubilis is a deciduous climber which climbs to 3-4 m in surrounding vegetation or scrambles over rocks on hillsides. The bulb is large, reaching 150 mm in diameter, with several fleshy white scales becoming greenish-yellow if exposed. Stems are fleshy, bright green, much branched and function as leaves. Flowers are 16-24 mm in diameter, green, with stalks turning backwards. Fruits are in the form of a brownish oval capsule, about 25 mm in diameter.

The species is known to flower between January to March throughout its wide distribution range.

B. volubilis capsule

Conservation statusThis species is listed as Vulnerable in the 2009 Red List because of severe pressure from medicinal plant harvesting over most of its range in South Africa. Based on observations provincial authorities estimate a minimum decline of 30% nationally over the past 30 years, and decreases in the sizes of individual bulbs available in the muthi markets have been detected. Appropriate cultivation techniques and healer training are essential for the protection of this species.

Distribution and habitatBowiea volubilis subsp volubilis occurs in the eastern parts of South Africa ranging from the Eastern Cape to Limpopo Province. It extends north into Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya and has also been recorded in Mozambique, Malawi and Angola.

This species occurs at low and medium altitudes, and is usually found along mountain ranges, in thickly vegetated river valleys, under bush clumps and in boulder screes. It has been recorded as scrambling at the margins of karroid, succulent bush in the Eastern Cape, and in KwaZulu-Natal, and it may occur in bushy kloofs at the coast and in the midlands. In Gauteng, Mpumalanga and North West Province this species is often found in open woodland or on steep rocky hills usually in well-shaded situations. Bowiea volubilis subsp volubilis tolerates wet and dry conditions, growing predominantly in summer rainfall areas, which receive approximately 200 - 800 mm of annual rainfall.

Derivation of name and historical aspectsBowiea was named by W.H. Harvey to honor James Bowie (1789-1869), a plant collector for Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. The genus is monotypic with two subspecies – volubilis and gariepensis - both occurring in South Africa. The epithet volubilis is a reference to the subspecies' twining growth whereas gariepensis is a reference to the geographical area of growth. The subspecies grow in separate geographical areas and show differences in floral, capsule and seed characters.

EcologyLittle is known about the pollination of Bowiea.

Uses and cultural aspectsIgibisila is used extensively for medicinal purposes for various skin diseases, sore eyes, bladder problems, barrenness, to facilitate delivery, and to procure abortions. Its magical properties are well-regarded. Warriors are made brave and invincible, travellers protected, and love procured with this strange-looking plant.

The much sought after bulbs of Boweia volubilis

However, it is also known to be very toxic, and both human and animal deaths have been attributed to cardiac failure resulting from ingestion of this plant.

Growing Bowiea volubilis

Few seeds are set, making offspring numbers low. If fruit are produced, the fine black seeds should be harvested as soon as the capsules start to split. The seeds should be sowed immediately onto a mix of one third sand and two thirds bark in seedling trays, and left for germination in semi-shade.